Explosives Residue Examinations

Instrumental analyses of explosives residue can determine whether substances are high explosive, low explosive, or explosive or incendiary mixtures; whether the composition of the substances is consistent with known explosive's products; and the type of explosives. Explosives residue can be deposited on metal, plastic, wood, paper, or glass. Residue may be deposited after handling, storing, or initiating an explosive.

Submitting Explosives Residue Evidence

Questions concerning explosives residue evidence should be directed to 03-9702366. Follow the Evidence Submission directions including Requesting Evidence Examinations and Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

• Some explosives residue is water soluble and must be protected from moisture. Other residue evaporates quickly and must be collected as soon as possible in airtight containers such as metal cans, glass jars, or heat-sealed or resealable plastic bags. Do not fill the containers to the top. Pack to prevent breakage.

• Collect and preserve control samples from the blast site.

• Extreme care should taken to avoid contamination of explosives residue evidence.